Here we are moving along to the end of summer.  It sure was short wasn’t it?  We sure have been through a lot due to cuts in wages and buy outs. 

It makes you cry to see how bad off GM is.  I saw in the Grand Rapids Press August 8 that GM has agreed to lend Delphi $300 million, as the auto parts supplier struggles to get out of bankruptcy. 

According to the court filing Wednesday in U.S. Bankruptcy in New York, that pending court approval, GM would increase its loan to the parts supplier to $950 million from $650 million so Delphi can maintain a minimum level of liability.  A hearing before Judge Robert Draine was scheduled for August 26.  I hope they got enough from our concessions to pay for it.

UAW President Ron Gettelfinger

“This time of year with campaigns in full swing, people ask, ‘Why is the UAW involved in politics?’  It’s about people.  It’s about families.  It’s about communities.  It’s about winning victories that make a difference in people’s lives.  Like the 13 week extension of unemployment insurance benefits congress passed in June. 

Economists continue to debate whether we are technically in a recession.  But there’s no debate around the kitchen table of the more than 8.5 million workers who are now unemployed as the bills pile up for these workers and their families, and savings shrink.  Hopes and dreams are shattered and anxiety mounts.

During the past year, layoffs in virtually all sectors of the economy – manufacturing, construction, and services have added more than 1.5 million people to the ranks of the jobless.  Twice as many people are now looking for work as there are jobs available.”  (End of quote.)

It looks like our Tigers have slacked off a little.  I hope they get going again.  They have a good team except for their pitching.  I haven’t given up on them yet.  We still have two months to go.

Mark Your Calendars

September 1 – Labor Day

Recently we received notification that the Grand Rapids Labor Day parade has been canceled for this year.  However, Muskegon will be holding a Labor Day parade at 11 a.m. at Pere Marguette Park.  For further information, you may contact Penny Salisz at 1(231) 722-3134, extension 227.

September 25 Retiree Meeting at the Hall

Hope to see you at our monthly meeting.  We will be serving donuts and coffee.

Good and Welfare

UAW Local 730 would like to extend their deepest sympathy and condolences to the families and friends of our departed members:  Ronald D. Colman 7-31-08